BAGHDAD (AP) the U.S. military says an American service member has been removed from duty in Iraq following complaints that marines were handing out coins promoting Christianity.

Sunni officials in the former insurgent stronghold of Fallujah say the coins were given to Iraqis at an entry checkpoint and had biblical verses written on them in arabic.

A military statement says the service member was removed from his duties today “amid concerns from Fallujah's citizens regarding reports of inappropriate conduct.”

The statement says U.S. troops are prohibited “from proselytizing any religion, faith or practices” and the military is investigating the reports.

The military promises appropriate action if allegations against the marines are substantiated.